It was late in the afternoon when I called Correy and Kincaide to the navigating room, where I had spent several hours charting our return course.
"I believe, gentlemen," I remarked, "that we can call on Mr. Fetter now. I'll ask you to remain in charge of the ship, Mr. Kincaide, while Mr. Correy and I—"
An attention signal sounded sharply to interrupt me. I answered it instantly.
"Sentry at exit, sir," said an excited voice. "Mr. Hendricks and the woman stowaway are here asking for you. They say it is very urgent."
"Bring them both here at once, under guard," I ordered. "Be sure you are properly relieved."
"Right, sir!"
I turned to Correy and Kincaide, who were watching me with curious eyes. My excitement must have shown upon my face.
"Mr. Hendricks and Liane are at the exit, asking to see me," I snapped. "They'll be here in a moment. What do you suppose is in the air?"
"Hendricks?" muttered Correy, his face darkening. "It seems to me he has a lot of nerve to—"